When asking yourself about something to do near me in San Diego with a group of friends or family, consider
Original 40 Brewing Company
Why Original 40 Brewing Company is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Original 40 Brewing Company is a cherished neighborhood brewery located in the vibrant North Park area of San Diego, known for its expertly crafted variety of high-quality beers and welcoming atmosphere. Established by longtime local business owners Steve and Patricia Billings, the brewery offers an inviting space where friends can gather to enjoy an extensive lineup of brews made with the finest ingredients, including IPAs, stouts, lagers, and innovative seasonal offerings. The venue’s vintage-inspired yet modern décor provides a fresh and comfortable setting that feels like a home away from home. Beyond the remarkable beers, Original 40 delights patrons with a thoughtfully curated food menu featuring burgers, sandwiches, flatbreads, salads, and boards designed to complement their craft brews perfectly. With 24 taps available, patrons can explore diverse beer styles, from smooth dry stouts to juicy New England IPAs and flavorful sours, ensuring there is something for every palate. The brewery’s friendly staff enhances the experience by sharing their in-depth knowledge of brewing, contributing to a lively, communal vibe ideal for casual lunches, dinners, happy hours, or semi-private celebrations. Its pet- and family-friendly environment further cements Original 40 Brewing as a fantastic, versatile spot to meet up with friends and savor the best of North Park’s craft beer scene.
Here's what people think of Original 40 Brewing Company
As of recent, Original 40 Brewing Company holds a 4.7-star rating based on 329 reviews.
Customer reviews of Original 40 Brewing Company consistently highlight its outstanding quality of beer and the warm, inviting atmosphere. Many reviewers praise the wide variety of beer styles on tap, noting particularly the excellence of the IPAs, stouts, and pilsners. The well-balanced, flavorful brews combined with a staff eager to engage and recommend beers contribute to a memorable experience. Positive feedback often mentions the delicious food menu, especially the burgers and pairing options, which complement the beers superbly. Additionally, patrons appreciate the brewery’s vintage-modern ambiance and convenient parking behind the venue, which enhance its appeal as a neighborhood gathering spot. On the other hand, some negative reviews point to the menu’s limited scope and occasional wait times during busy hours. A few visitors desired more extensive food choices or faster service but generally acknowledged that these minor drawbacks do not overshadow the quality of the beers and overall friendly environment. In conclusion, the majority of reviews affirm Original 40 Brewing Company as a top-tier destination in San Diego’s craft beer scene, praised for quality brews, great food pairings, and a welcoming community feel, making it well worth a visit.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jennifer Hoglund
Wandered into original 40 and ordered the Mexican lager and the west coast IPA. The hubs said it was the best IPA he's ever had. Ordered the poutine fries, the Korean BBQ flatbed, the BLAT and the Korean tacos. Everything was delicious. The atmosphere was a great vibe. The bathrooms were clean and cleverly decorated. Lots of great spaces to either socialize or work remotely.
Jeremy Alfano
Very nice open air brewery with plenty of seating and plenty of beers to select from. All were food. Steak frites and mussels both were good entrees; good portion for what you paid. Pretzels was a good way to start off the meal. Definitely give it a try
Allison O'Hare
Hosted my boyfriend’s 40th birthday here last night and could not of made for a better time! The staff, drinks and food were all incredible! The rooftop was the perfect size for my 28 guests!
Fedz
Good beer , Poutine fries were delicious, but just a suggestion. Add more meat for 16 dollar poutine fries. I paid the price and would expect more meat over the fries.
M Wong
Right in the center of North Park, Original 40 Brewing Company offer a wonderful setting to catch up with peers and a great Tuesday evening trivia.
How to reach Original 40 Brewing Company
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Why Original 40 Brewing Company may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Original 40 Brewing Company with your friends?
When it comes to gathering with friends or family, Original 40 Brewing Company in North Park, San Diego, stands out as a vibrant and welcoming destination that effortlessly combines the best of craft beer, delicious food, and a convivial atmosphere. The brewery boasts a high rating of 4.7 from over 300 reviews, reflecting its reputation as a favorite local hangout. This spot is perfect for a group meetup because it offers a unique blend of vintage charm with modern design elements, creating an inviting space that feels like home from the moment you walk in. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply catching up after a long week, the warm, relaxed environment stimulates great conversations and lasting memories. Owned by longtime North Park residents Steve and Patricia Billings, the brewery exudes a community spirit, making every guest feel like part of the neighborhood. Above all, the carefully crafted beers and diverse menu ensure that everyone in your group will find something to enjoy, from craft beer lovers to casual diners, making it an ideal rally point to relax and reconnect.
What activities can your group enjoy together at Original 40 Brewing Company?
Original 40 Brewing Company offers an array of activities perfect for groups, making it an excellent venue for social gatherings. First and foremost, the brewery’s primary attraction is its impressive selection of craft beers. The brewery features a diverse range of styles—including IPAs, stouts, lagers, and other carefully brewed varieties. Beer enthusiasts in the group can enjoy tasting sessions or flights, which provide a curated sampling experience. The knowledgeable staff is always eager to share insights about the brewing process or suggest pairings, adding an educational and engaging layer to your meetup. Beyond beer tasting, Original 40 offers a full menu of handcrafted food designed to complement the brews. Groups can indulge in savory burgers, sandwiches, flatbreads, and charcuterie boards, allowing everyone to satisfy different tastes and dietary preferences. The brewery also has comfortable seating arrangements suitable for large parties and semi-private events, making it easy to organize celebrations or casual hangouts. The lively social setting, combined with excellent food and drink, naturally encourages connection, laughter, and memorable moments among friends or family.
Why is Original 40 Brewing Company ideal for hosting group meetups?
Original 40 Brewing Company excels as a group meetup venue for several reasons. The design of the space balances a nostalgic vintage vibe with fresh, contemporary touches that create a warm and inclusive atmosphere. The interior is bright and airy, making it comfortable without feeling crowded, which is essential for groups looking to chat and relax. Its location on University Avenue in North Park places it in a lively neighborhood known for its vibrant community and accessibility, which makes it easy for everyone to reach. The brewery’s hours are also convenient—open from midday through late evening, including weekends—which means groups can meet for lunch, dinner, or a late night gathering depending on their schedule. Furthermore, the owners’ strong ties to the community ensure that the staff is friendly, welcoming, and attentive, creating a sense of personalized service that enhances the overall experience. Finally, the availability of semi-private spaces allows groups to celebrate special occasions or hold meetups with a little extra privacy without sacrificing the buzz of the brewery environment.
What kind of food can groups expect at Original 40 Brewing Company?
The food at Original 40 Brewing Company is crafted to pair perfectly with its range of beers, making it a key highlight for groups who want more than just drinks. The menu is diverse and designed to cater to a wide audience, featuring everything from hearty burgers and sandwiches to light, fresh salads and shareable boards. These shared platters are ideal for groups, creating a communal dining experience that encourages sampling and conversation. Flatbreads with inventive toppings add a creative flair to the menu, appealing to those looking for artisanal options. The balance between comfort food and more sophisticated fare means that whether your group is craving casual snacks or a full meal, everyone leaves satisfied. The quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation align with the brewery’s commitment to excellence across the board. Because Original 40 Brewing Company is as much about the culinary experience as the beer, the food uplifts your meetup, turning a simple gathering into a flavorful celebration.
How does the atmosphere at Original 40 Brewing Company enhance your group experience?
Atmosphere plays a crucial role in any meetup, and Original 40 Brewing Company excels at creating an environment where groups feel comfortable and connected. The look and feel of the brewery is a blend of vintage and modern styles, featuring elements that feel lived-in yet fresh. This intentional design choice makes the space cozy without sacrificing sophistication. Lighting is bright enough to keep the mood lively but warm enough to feel inviting, striking the perfect balance for social interactions. The brewery buzzes with a friendly energy fueled by patrons who are equally passionate about good beer, good food, and good company. The staff contributes significantly to this positive vibe, offering smiles, recommendations, and stories about their brews, which further personalizes your visit. Whether your group wants to relax into deep conversations or enjoy some lighthearted fun, the Original 40 Brewing Company’s atmosphere supports a range of social moods, ensuring everyone in your meetup feels at ease and engaged.
What makes the craft beers at Original 40 Brewing Company stand out for groups?
The craft beers at Original 40 Brewing Company are a core reason why groups choose to meet here. Known for their quality and variety, the brews are made from the finest ingredients and crafted with a dedication to flavor and aroma. The diverse beer lineup includes everything from hop-forward IPAs to rich stouts and crisp lagers, offering something for every palate in the group. For those new to craft beer, the friendly staff guides tastings, making it a fun exploration experience. For craft beer aficionados, the complexity and freshness of the brews make the brewery a destination spot. Beer flights allow groups to share and compare tasting notes, turning drinking into a social and educational activity. The brewery’s commitment to innovation and quality ensures that the beer served is always a highlight, enhancing any meetup with friends or family.
What special features does Original 40 Brewing Company offer for events and private gatherings?
For groups looking to celebrate milestones or host special meetups, Original 40 Brewing Company offers semi-private event spaces that balance exclusivity with the convivial brewery atmosphere. These spaces make it possible to have a more intimate gathering while still enjoying the energy and vibe of the larger brewery setting. The staff supports event planning, helping coordinate menus and drink selections tailored to the occasion. This option is perfect for birthday parties, work meetups, or family gatherings where a little extra space and privacy are desired without losing the social buzz. Flexibility in the brewery’s open hours, including evenings and weekends, also allows groups to select times that best fit their schedules. With a combination of excellent food, drink, atmosphere, and service, Original 40 Brewing Company provides a turnkey solution for groups seeking memorable event experiences.
What accessibility and convenience features support group gatherings at Original 40 Brewing Company?
Original 40 Brewing Company is located on University Avenue in the heart of North Park, a bustling San Diego neighborhood known for its accessibility and local charm. The convenient location makes it easy for groups coming from different parts of the city to meet up. Operating hours from midday until late at night during weekdays and weekends provide flexibility, enabling groups to arrange meetups for lunch, dinner, or late-night socializing. The brewery is designed with comfortable seating suitable for larger parties, and staff efficiently manages space to accommodate groups without overcrowding. Parking and public transport options in the neighborhood also support easy access. These practical details reduce logistical stress for group organizers, allowing everyone to focus on enjoying the experience.
Why are customer reviews a reliable indicator that Original 40 Brewing Company is a great choice for group meetups?
With a strong 4.7-star rating from nearly 330 customer reviews, Original 40 Brewing Company demonstrates consistent excellence in delivering a positive experience to guests. Many reviews highlight the quality of the beer, the tasty menu, and the warm, inviting atmosphere, all key factors for successful group meetups. Reviewers often mention attentive and knowledgeable staff who enhance visits by personalizing recommendations and creating a welcoming space. The high rating across a substantial number of reviews suggests that the brewery reliably meets or exceeds expectations for a wide range of visitors. For anyone considering a venue for friends or family gatherings, these reviews provide social proof that Original 40 Brewing Company is a smart and satisfying choice.
How does Original 40 Brewing Company integrate community spirit into your group experience?
Original 40 Brewing Company is not just a brewery; it is a community hub that reflects the vibrant culture of North Park. Owners Steve and Patricia Billings have deep roots in the neighborhood, which shapes their commitment to creating a space that welcomes everyone. This community focus translates into events, collaborations, and a friendly staff who treat guests like neighbors. When groups gather here, they become part of a larger shared experience that celebrates local craft, flavors, and friendships. The brewery often serves as a platform for local artists, musicians, and community initiatives, enriching your meetup beyond just food and drink. This sense of belonging makes Original 40 Brewing Company an authentic, rewarding place to rally with friends or family.